How to stay safe online Year 6?

Teaching Year 6 students how to stay safe online is crucial as they begin to explore the internet more independently. Here’s a simple guide tailored to 10-11-year-olds on staying safe online:

1. Understand Personal Information: Teach them what personal information is (like their full name, address, phone numbers, school name) and why it’s important to keep it private. Explain that they should never share personal details without checking with a trusted adult.
2. Strong Passwords: Explain the importance of using strong passwords that include a combination of letters, numbers, and symbols. Encourage them not to share their passwords with anyone other than their parents or guardians.
3. Be Careful with Clicks: Warn them about the dangers of clicking on links or downloading files from unknown sources as these might contain viruses or lead to inappropriate content.
4. Recognize and Report Cyberbullying: Teach them what cyberbullying is and encourage them to always tell a trusted adult if they or someone else is being bullied online. Discuss the importance of being kind online and treating others as they would want to be treated.
5. Privacy Settings and Blocking: Show them how to adjust privacy settings on social media and games. Teach them how to block or report anyone who makes them feel uncomfortable.
6. Think Before You Post: Remind them that everything they post online can stay there forever, so they should think carefully before posting pictures or messages. Discuss how online actions can impact real life.
7. Use Safe and Secure Websites: Teach them how to identify safe and reliable websites and explain why it’s important to stay on these sites. Show them how to look for signs like “https” in the URL or a padlock symbol in the address bar.
8. Ask for Help: Encourage them to ask questions and seek help if they’re unsure about anything online. Reinforce that it’s okay to ask for assistance.
9. Setting Limits: Discuss the importance of having time limits on how long they spend online to maintain a healthy balance between online activities and other aspects of life like homework, physical activity, and sleep.
10. Safe Online Communication: Talk about the importance of only communicating with people they know in real life and not accepting friend requests or following requests from strangers.

By teaching these concepts in an age-appropriate way, Year 6 students can develop a solid understanding and habits that help keep them safe online. Regular conversations and involvement in their online activities will reinforce these lessons and provide opportunities for guidance.